In a previous home, we had a big
laurel hedge that housed many happy birds.
Sketching alongside him among the cypresses and
laurel hedges were not only his friend from Ghirlandaio's atelier, Francesco Granacci, but also Giovanfrancesco Rustici (the man who would later realize some of Leonardo's sculptural designs), Giuliano Bugiardini, and Pietro Torrigiano.
The vivid facade of this 26 year - old Manchester airport hotel is softened by potted plants, hanging baskets, colourful flower beds, and luscious
laurel hedges - none of which give away any clues to the modern design inside.